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Thursday, May 15, 2008

Become a Chili God (In Belleville, At Least)

Belleville will host its annual Chili Cook-Off on Friday, October 3, and Saturday, October 4. If you want to enter, the registration deadline is Sunday, August 31. Why am I posting this news now? Well, because I just got the press release. But, also, if you want to win, you'd better start simmering no later than June. Call Amber Hector at the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce (618-233-2015) for more info.

Belleville, Illinois, May 14, 2008 - The Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce is seeking chili cooks to participate in the 25th Annual Chili Cook-Off in downtown Belleville Friday, October 3, 2008 and Saturday, October 4, 2008.

Since 1983, Belleville's Annual Chili Cook-Off has featured the culinary creations of individuals, local organizations and area businesses. Competitors can enter the "Not-For-Profit" division or the "Private/Commercial" division. The "Not-For-Profit" division participants will donate all profits to charity. Judging will take place on Saturday, October 4th, with a first, second and third place awarded within each division. Cash awards ranging from $200 to $400 will be presented to the Not-For-Profit winners. Commercial winners will receive ribbons and bragging rights for the entire year.

Chili connoisseurs of all ages will be able to purchase samples of the chili, as well as bowls, starting at 11 a.m. each day. After sampling each variety, visitors can vote for their favorite chili to win the People's Choice Award.

Parties interested in competing in the Chili Cook-Off should contact Amber Hector at the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce at (618) 233-2015 to request an application. The deadline for registration is August 31, 2008.